Very Clean Drop Top Cruiser! Believed Original 326 V8, Auto, Power Top, PS, PB

1966 Pontiac Tempest Custom Description

Find a GTO convertible this nicely restored, and you're looking at a $60,000+ investment. But this lovely 1966 Tempest Custom ragtop delivers the same handsome good looks, a great V8 rumble, and an unmistakable '60s muscle car image for a fraction of the price. Who would have thought a simple GTO badge would affect values so dramatically? GM had a lot of names for the lovely shade of red, but for Pontiac in 1966 it was code R... Montero Red. Combined with the Pontiac's already stunning good looks, it creates an ideal blend of sophistication and muscle that was the excitement division's forte in the '60s. The split grille and stacked headlights make it instantly recognizable as a Pontiac, but with this one's high-quality restoration, you can see some of the finer details such as the top crease that runs from nose to tail, emphasizing the kick-up in the doors, and the neatly integrated trim that runs the length of the car. You'll note that the chrome is good throughout, with much of it likely original to the car, including the big, bright bumpers fore and aft. The split mesh grille is in great shape as well, and all the original badging was left right where it belongs from the factory, because this Tempest isn't pretending to be something other than exactly what it is. The black vinyl top is power actuated and in great shape too, providing just enough contrast to the long red sled when it's in the "up" position. That sumptuous red vinyl seat interior was restored to the same standards as the rest of the car and still looks awesome today. The seat covers are crisp and well detailed, with no signs of cracking, fading, or even anyone spending a lot of time sitting in them, to be honest. Matching door panels with correct "Custom" emblems in the center were installed at the same time, as well as a plush set of red carpets in the correct weave. Aiming for a more European feel in the '60s, Pontiac designers gave it a slick dashboard full of round gauges (AKA the Rally Gauge Cluster), and a comfortable two-spoke steering wheel, all of which are in good condition. Original equipment included an AM radio, which appears to be in original condition in the factory slot, along with a heater, front seatbelts, and a power convertible top. The back seat is great condition, providing plenty of room for all your friends, and when the top is down (as it should be whenever possible), a red boot cover fits nicely for a classic, finished look. You'll find the trunk to be clean and tidy as well, and it includes a clean reproduction mat and what could very well be the original bias-ply spare and jack set. The believed original snarling 326 cubic inch V8 under the hood delivers plenty of performance with a great soundtrack, and thanks to careful maintenance since the restoration, it more than lives up to the stripes it wears. Nicely detailed and essentially bone-stock, it wears an original-style intake and carburetor to help it breathe, while stock headers and newer chambered mufflers on the dual exhaust are responsible for that fabulous soundtrack. The engine bay is clean and shows signs of conscientious ownership, with turquoise paint on the engine and no signs of neglect. A 2-speed Powerglide transmission is an indestructible partner, and a set of power brakes work great and ensure safety. Handsome Rallye wheels with beauty rings give it appropriate attitude, and wear thick 205/75/14 American Classic white-wall radials to complete the period look. GTO looks at a significant discount, it's hard to go wrong with this pretty Tempest ragtop. Call today!